Suburban Chicago Man Accused of Posing as Funeral Director, Mishandling Remains

Unlicensed Operation Alleged: Clark Morgan is accused of presenting himself as a licensed funeral director, despite state records indicating he only held an intern license, which was reportedly altered.

Mishandling of Remains: A family reported a traumatic experience during a viewing where the deceased's eyes opened due to alleged improper embalming and decomposition. Morgan was involved in this funeral.

Crematory Violations: Heights Crematory, run by Morgan, faced multiple state citations between July 2024 and December 2024 for violations including improper storage of bodies (e.g., in a broken refrigerator, unsecured in trailers).

State Investigation & Action: Whistleblower reports with photographic and video evidence led to a state investigation. The Illinois State Comptroller's Office has filed a complaint seeking permanent closure of the crematory, accusing it of misrepresentation, concealing facts, and gross malpractice. The crematory was temporarily shut down and later suspended.

Previous Offenses: State records show Morgan was fined $10,000 in 2022/2023 for improperly removing bodies from a hospital using his allegedly altered intern license.

Why this matters: These allegations highlight potential vulnerabilities in the funeral service industry and the profound emotional and ethical impact on grieving families when standards are not met. It underscores the importance of regulatory oversight and due diligence by consumers.

Q: Was Clark Morgan a licensed funeral director?

A: According to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations records cited in reports, Clark Morgan has never held a full funeral director license, only an intern license which was allegedly altered and used improperly.

Q: What happened at Heights Crematory?

A: Heights Crematory, operated by Morgan, was cited multiple times by state regulators for improperly storing and handling bodies. Investigations revealed bodies kept in inadequate conditions, leading to state action to suspend and permanently close the facility.

Q: What should families do when choosing funeral services?

A: Families should verify the credentials and licenses of funeral directors and establishments through state regulatory bodies. Ask questions about procedures, especially regarding embalming and cremation, and ensure contracts are clear.

Verify Credentials: Always confirm that funeral directors and establishments are properly licensed by your state's regulatory agency.

Understand the Process: Ask detailed questions about how your loved one's remains will be handled, stored, and prepared.

Report Concerns: If you encounter unprofessional or potentially illegal practices, report them immediately to the relevant state regulatory board (like the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations or the State Comptroller's Office for crematories in Illinois).

Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong during your interactions with a funeral service provider, seek clarification or consider another provider.

Source 1: Suburban Chicago man accused of posing as funeral director without license, mishandling remains - CBS Chicago{:target="_blank"}

Source 2: Woman approached casket to say goodbye to mum at funeral when her eyes suddenly opened - The Mirror{:target="_blank"}

Source 3: Man involved in crematory controversy was also accused of operating as funeral director unlicensed - CBS Chicago (Video){:target="_blank"}